In a quick change from talking about what comics etc I'm working on, I thought that I'd take time to mention some of the stuff that's impressed me over the past year. So, in no particular order let's dive in...

The Absence by Martin StiffMightily enjoyable and a real page turner - what's there not to like? Great art and design, a slow burning mystery and interesting characters. Very inspirational for a person (like myself) creating self published comics.

Vern and Lettuce by Sarah McIntyreSuper stuff. I defy even the most cold-hearted-super-hero-comic-book-reader not to enjoy this.El Sketchbook Lorenzo DeluxeBehold the Etherington Brothers. Very talented and nice blokes to boot. In a slightly odd choice, I've picked out the mighty sketchbook collection rather than a comic. I'm sure though, that you'd forgive me if you could see this book from over where you're sitting. 600 odd pages of fantastic sketchbook action and a great book to dip into for a bit of inspiration.

PJANG by Rol HirstGood old Rol was kind enough to let me loose on a strip in PJANG this year, but that's not the reason why he's here - oh no. Great, great stories - that's the reason. If like me you're a sucker for twists and turns in your comics, then you ought to check out PJANG.

Outcastes by Tony McGeeMagic and mystery by Mr. McGee. The only mystery to me being how he manages to draw quite so many top comics? Does he draw while he sleeps? I don't know? A top series and one that's going from strength to strength - my only criticism is the wait for the latest issue!

Kani by WJCI stumbled across WJC's stuff in Will Kirkby's Nu Earth and am now officially hooked. Just the right mix of storytelling and oddness for my liking. Roll on his forth-coming book Gungle for Blank Slate this year.The Bizarre Adventures of Gilbert and Sullivan by Laura HowellVery funny stuff indeed by the wonderfully talented Ms. Howell. Bravo I say. Any comic that has Oscar Wilde threatening to take a gang of gentlemen off home for a 'jolly good kissing' has got to be worth a look.

Phew. Thanks for bearing with me on this one folks. Normal service will be resumed as soon as possible.